Qatar painted roads blue to fight extreme heat in sunlight-reflecting trial

The Public Works Authority in Qatar has completed a pilot project using cool pavement on roads, announced on 19 August 2019. Conventional asphalt absorbs a significant amount of sunlight, contributing to higher temperatures. In contrast, the new coating reflects a substantial portion of sunlight, potentially reducing overall temperatures and related issues.

The pilot involved applying the cooling material to approximately 200 meters of vehicle lanes on Abdullah bin Jassim Street, near Souq Waqif, as well as 200 meters of pedestrian and bicycle paths in front of Katara, the Cultural Village. Sensors will monitor the temperature differences between the cool pavement and conventional asphalt over an 18-month period. This research, conducted in collaboration with Japanese company Oriental, aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the material.

Cool pavement is made from traditional materials like concrete, with a coating consisting of four layers that reflect about 50% of sunlight. This reflective quality is designed to reduce heat absorption and improve road safety. The protective material applied to road markings shields them from vehicle contact, enhancing their durability. Additionally, the light color of the pavement reflects street lights and car headlights, improving visibility for pedestrians and vehicles alike.

The 18-month study will assess the material's efficiency and potential for wider implementation. If successful, Qatar may adopt cool pavement across its road network. The benefits include reduced heat-related illnesses, improved air quality, and enhanced safety for pedestrians.